Whether you’re a Seattle, WA local, or just in town for the weekend, you may be looking for something to do to get out of the city. Fortunately, there are many day trips from Seattle ranging from half-day visits to full-day excursions that are worth the drive. To help you pick your next adventure, we compiled a list of the 10 best day trips you can check out in and around the Seattle area. From national parks to a bavarian-themed town, keep reading to see what day trips made the list.
1. Mount Rainier National Park
Approximate distance: 100 Miles
Estimated travel time: 2 hours
Located southeast of Seattle, Mount Rainier National Park is one of three national parks in Washington and is known as the most glaciated peak in the contiguous United States. With five different areas to explore – Paradise, Longmire, Ohanapecosh, Sunrise, and Carbon River & Mowich – there are many ways to spend the day at Mount Rainier, such as hiking Fremont Lookout, exploring the Grove of Patriarchs Trail, or having brunch at Paradise Inn. If you’re planning to go to Mount Rainier, head out as early as possible to beat the traffic heading into the park.
2. Olympic National Park
Approximate distance: 110 Miles
Estimated travel time: 3 hours
Olympic National Park is the ninth most visited National Park in the US and is located on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington, around 110 miles west of Seattle. There are several ways to arrive at Olympic National Park from Seattle, either by car or by ferry via Edmonds, WA, both of which take around 3 hours. This national park is known for its ecosystem diversity and picturesque scenery, making it a must-see when planning a day trip from Seattle. Some of the best things to do at the park include visiting one of the many beaches such as 1st Beach, 2nd Beach, Rialto Beach, or Shi Shi Beach, taking in the mountain views at Hurricane Ridge, or visiting the nearby Hoh Rainforest.
3. North Cascades National Park
Approximate distance: 105…